Of course the Olympic and Paralympic Games has played a vital part in equestrian sport this year and so it was a major theme throughout the awards ceremony, which was hosted by Mike Tucker and Zoey Bird.

Awards were presented by HRH The Princess Royal and many of the Olympic and Paralympic riders were present to collect these, including Carl Hester, Charlotte Dujardin, Zara Phillips, Nicola Wilson, Mary King, Natasha Baker and Sophie Christiansen, as well as owners and trainers.

The South Essex Insurance Brokers Voluntary Service Award was awarded to all of the dedicated volunteers who made the Olympic and Paralympic games possible, and was collected by Sarah Phillips from British Riding Clubs on behalf of all the Games Makers.

Desi Dillingham, chairman of the Equestrian Awards Organising Committee, said: “The Equestrian Awards is a fantastic showcase of the equestrian talent in the UK. 2012 has been a wonderful year for our equestrian sports and the awards really do celebrate all of the incredible achievements.”